Lee, Fox eye shot at Open

There could be a heavy New Zealand presence at the British Open, after another excellent day for Danny Lee and Ryan Fox on their tours.

Lee sits in a share of fourth at the Greenbrier Classic on the PGA Tour, while Fox also occupies tied fourth at the European Tour’s Irish Open.

Michael Hendry is the only Kiwi qualified for the Open on July 20, but spots are up for grabs at this week’s events, with Lee and Fox in line to claim a berth in the field.

Fox made the cut at the Open in 2015, and is a strong chance of a return if he can keep up his form.

The 30-year-old finished sixth at last week’s French Open, and has carded rounds of 67 and 66 to sit at 11-under through two rounds in Ireland, just two shots off the lead.

Fox carded seven birdies and one bogey in his second round at the talent-packed Irish tournament; an event where the top three players who are not already exempt can book their ticket to the Open.

Lee is also within touching distance of a spot at the year’s third major, where he could make his third consecutive appearance.

Lee strung together four birdies and a double bogey to post a twounder 68 to move to eight-under, four shots off the lead held by Sebastian Munoz.

The defending champion of the event, Lee explained why he’s found success at the West Virginia tournament.

“I think the layouts here — it suits very well for my eyes. I don’t have to hit a lot of drivers out here, I love hitting three woods off the tee and some of the courses, it’s too long for me to do that,” he said. “I just keep giving myself birdie opportunities out there; that’s working for me.” If Fox and Lee can get to the Open, it would mark the first time since 2009 at least three Kiwis played in a major, where Josh Geary, Mark Brown, David Smail and Michael Campbell all took part.